The Screening Room

Protagonist

Date of first viewing: Monday, April 30, 2007

Location: Kabuki Theater
Format: Big screen

I just saw this film at the San Francisco International Film Festival. It left me glowing. At first, this documentary reminded me a little of Errol Morris's Fast, Cheap, and Out of Control, in that it tells 4 seemingly different stories. But the charisma and sincerity of the four subjects as they relate the dramas of their lives, combined with gorgeous puppetry and elements of Euripides plays create a delicious, warm stew of human motives and emotions. I left the theater thoroughly satisfied.

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Golden Door

Date of first viewing: Thursday, April 26, 2007

Location: Castro Theater
Format: big screen

Beautifully shot, leisurely paced, short on dialogue and unnecessary exposition, combining meticulously researched realism with profoundly surreal images, this film was the glorious opener to the 2007 San Francisco Film International Festival. Don't expect quick answers or lots of action. Instead, relax into this film, allow yourself to savor each moment, let the images penetrate your unconscious, and you will be roundly rewarded.

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